Fado

Portuguese Blues

That was how Fado was described to me by a musician. Yet, looking into it, it is that and so much more. It is a proud history of folk song.

The stencil art on this garage door features 2 of the greatest Fado singers, Amalia Rodriguez and Mariza.

Amalia Rodriguez

1920- – 1999

She is the Queen of Fado – Rainha do Fado. To this day she remains the best-selling Portuguese artist in the history of recorded music.

Link to more info about Amalia

In 2021 I found a stunning mural of Amalia.

Mariza

1973 – Present

Internationally beloved icon, Mozambique-born Portuguese singer Mariza has become the currently reigning Rainha do Fado.

Visit Mariza’s official website.

I adore both of the songs, by these Rainhas!!

Pics taken by Resa – April 30, 2025

Toronto, Canada

Stencil Art by:

Let’s All Join In

This is a post about Peace, Love, Smiles & a song Trent wrote & recorded..

It began with the John Lennon post I recently did. Trent had selected a Lennon song for the event.

Then it grew into a song and video written and produced by Trent.

The lyrics are poetic, and hold a message inspired by John.

V1
I thought I saw Lennon’s face
From a trolley rocketing by
It disappeared without a trace
Did the vision also die?

His words come tumbling back
From a far off distant land
A great message on each track
A utopian dream so grand

V2
I read the news today (oh boys)
Children-human shields were killed
Drones and bombs made some noise
More innocent blood was spilled

Why is making war so appealing?
Why is love considered quaint?
I think our attitude is revealing
Our devotion to guns a taint

Chorus

So let’s all join in
Sing of peace and love again
For we all belong
In a Lennon written song
It can’t be wrong
So sing along
Let us all join in
All join in

Bridge

Such an imagination!
He made us dream
The world stood as one
Our actions could redeem

Can we remember
Perhaps even enhance
And once again
Give peace a chance?

V3
Today people gave power to the rich
A billionaire grabbed more
We’re told advancing is a cinch
Just give the billionaires more

John trusted the People’s voice
Today that seems absurd
I think that we have no choice
But to make our voices heard

(Chorus)

V4
I found the face in a doorway
Faded into nostalgic hues
The simple picture’s seen better days
Reflecting Lennon’s views

Although the decades whizzed past
Never believe that it is too late
John’s message will always last
Hold my hand, let’s temp fate

(Chorus)
(Chorus)
(Chorus)


Once a week there is usually a Weekly Smile post on Trent’s Blog, He tells about something that made him smile. He asks what made you smile.

This week I’m smiling because a street art post of mine, inspired a beautiful song about “give peace a chance” to be written & video to be made.

I’ve always believed in peace and love.

Norman Orenstein on Composing, Producing & Recording Music

Rebecca Budd hosts a fabulous Podcast with a brilliant guitarist, who went on to score films and more. Hear his answers to Rebecca’s probing questions from creative to business aspects.

Season 6 Episode 3: Norman Orenstein on Composing, Producing and Recording Music

Check out Norman on his website! Just click on the pic below.

Thank you, Rebecca!

The Bluest Blues

A young Buddy Guy.

Wonder why his guitar looks like he’s playing left handed?

Dexter Gordon

Donnie Walsh from “Downchild Blues Band” on harmonica.

Background ghost musicians.

This amazing mural is on Grossman’s Tavern in Toronto.

Grossman’s is almost kitty corner from the El Mocambo, made famous by The Rolling Stones in 1977.

Grossman’s – since 1943.

I lived 1 block up the street, for 15 years. Many stories, but that’s for when I get a porch & a rocking chair.

Pics taken by Resa – Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Toronto, Canada

The Artist: John Nobrega – w/Allan Bender & Haven Hughes

This video is from Downchild’s 40th year celebration.

Research: Kat asked Nobrega on IG who was who, but his profile is now gone.

All found online.